COACHING STAFF
Meet the leaders who guide our Mustangs to excellence on and off the field.
Head Coach
Coach Murray
Head Coach
11 years with Mustang Football
Coach Tyler Murray embodies the spirit and tradition of Merritt Island High School football, now leading his alma mater as Head Football Coach since 2022. His journey is a testament to dedication, talent, and a deep-rooted connection to the Mustangs. A proud graduate of Merritt Island High School in 2009, Murray was a key player on the District Championship-winning team. His collegiate career took him to Bethel University in Tennessee, where he made an indelible mark. A formidable presence on the field, he was a four-year starter and a three-year captain, earning team MVP honors as a freshman. He etched his name into the record books as the all-time leader in tackles and achieved All-American status as a senior, showcasing his exceptional skill and leadership. Following his standout college career, Murray transitioned to the professional ranks, playing for the San Angelo Bandits in the Arena League. An injury, however, pivoted his path toward coaching, as the Bandits recognized his football acumen, hiring him as Special Teams Coordinator before promoting him to Defensive Coordinator. He also ventured overseas to play for the Ravensburg Razorbacks in the German Football League, further broadening his experience. Between his professional playing stints, Murray returned to his collegiate roots, coaching linebackers at Bethel University for a year. During this time, he significantly impacted the program, developing two All-Conference middle linebackers. Returning home to Merritt Island after his time in Germany, Murray rejoined the Mustangs as an Assistant Coach. His strategic mind and leadership quickly became evident, leading to his promotion to Offensive Coordinator. In this role, he masterfully guided the Mustangs' offense, culminating in a memorable run to the State Title game in 2021. Now, as Head Football Coach, Tyler Murray continues to build upon a legacy deeply intertwined with Merritt Island High School, inspiring a new generation of Mustangs with his passion, experience, and winning pedigree.
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Wilson Nicks
Offensive Coordinator
Coach Wil Nicks Offensive Coordinator Wil Nicks serves as the Offensive Coordinator for Merritt Island High School, leveraging extensive experience at both the collegiate and high school levels to orchestrate an explosive attack for the Mustangs. A key member of the coaching staff during Merritt Island’s run to the 2021 State Championship game, Coach Nicks has a proven track record of developing talent, including mentoring two All-State quarterbacks during his tenure. A former standout quarterback himself, Nicks played at powerhouse Pulaski Academy, where he finished second in the nation for single-season passing yards. He went on to sign with Arkansas State under head coach Hugh Freeze before concluding his collegiate playing career at Bethel University in Tennessee. Before joining the Mustangs, Coach Nicks spent two seasons as the Running Backs Coach at Southern Arkansas University. He draws on his background as a player and college coach to mentor Merritt Island’s athletes, preparing them for success at the next level. Off the field, Coach Nicks teaches B.L.A.S.T. at MIHS and enjoys barbecue and spending quality time with his family.
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Robert Purvin
Defensive Coordinator
Coach Robert Purvin Defensive Coordinator / Head of Strength & Conditioning Coach Robert Purvin enters his third season on the Merritt Island High School staff, serving as the Defensive Coordinator and Head of Strength and Conditioning. Since joining the Mustangs, Purvin’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball, combined with his expertise in physical development, has been instrumental in guiding the program to three consecutive playoff appearances. Before arriving at Merritt Island, Coach Purvin built an impressive resume at the collegiate level. He served as the Co-Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach at the University of Minnesota Morris. Prior to that, he spent three seasons at Benedictine University (NCAA Division III) in Illinois, where he coached a linebacking unit that produced a conference Defensive MVP, as well as an All-Region and All-American selection. A 2016 graduate of Bethel College (KS), Purvin was a two-year team captain and student coach, holding a degree in Health and Physical Education. Beyond his duties at the high school, Coach Purvin is dedicated to the future of the sport, actively assisting with County Youth football programs to develop the next generation of athletes.
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Ray Watkins
Defenisve Pass Game Coordinator / Safeties
Coach Watkins Safeties Coach Coach Watkins enters his second season with the Merritt Island Mustangs, bringing a wealth of collegiate and high school coaching experience to the staff. His impact on the secondary was immediate; in his first year with the program, he mentored two Safeties who earned All-Conference honors. A native of Melbourne, Florida, Watkins possesses an extensive collegiate coaching background. He previously served as the Safeties Coach at West Virginia University and worked as a Defensive Graduate Assistant at MSU. His resume also includes time as the Cornerbacks Coach at Oklahoma Baptist—where he helped the team achieve their best record in the DII era—and as the Defensive Backs Coach at Black Hills State. Before joining the Mustangs, Watkins served as the Defensive Coordinator at Palm Bay High School. A former collegiate athlete himself, he played five seasons at Minot State, helping the Beavers set program records for wins. He holds a degree in Physical Education from Minot State and a Master's in Strategic Leadership from Black Hills State.
Derek Peterson
Running backs
Coach Derek Peterson Running Backs Coach Coach Derek Peterson is a cornerstone of the Merritt Island High School football program, having dedicated over 15 years to the Mustangs. For the past four seasons, he has served as the JV Head Coach and Running Backs Coach, playing a crucial role in developing the program's future talent. A true Mustang family man, Coach Peterson has seen five of his own children graduate from Merritt Island, deepening his commitment to the school and community. His dedication to youth football extends far beyond the high school sidelines; he was a pivotal figure in the local Pop Warner league, running the organization for over a decade. This extensive experience at the youth level, coupled with his long tenure at Merritt Island, makes Coach Peterson an invaluable mentor for young athletes transitioning through the ranks of Mustang football.
Shaquille Thomas
Defensive Line
Coach Shaquille Thomas A proud Brevard County native and graduate of Rockledge High School, Coach Shaquille Thomas brings a deep understanding of local football and a passion for athlete development to the Merritt Island coaching staff. A multi-sport athlete in football and wrestling during his prep career, Coach Thomas understands the discipline and resilience required for success. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Exercise Science from the University of Central Florida in 2017, simultaneously beginning his coaching journey at Oviedo High School for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. This early experience helped shape his coaching philosophy, which emphasizes fundamental skills, accountability, and strong character. Returning to his roots in 2019, Coach Thomas joined the Merritt Island High School program. He has been an integral part of the Mustangs' success, notably contributing to the team's run to the 2021 State Runner-Up title. Throughout his coaching career, he has successfully mentored and developed numerous athletes who have gone on to play at the collegiate level. Coach Thomas is committed to fostering a culture of hard work, leadership, and excellence, developing well-rounded young men both on and off the field.
Kelly Keegan
Linebackers/ Special Teams
A proud servant to God, family, and community, Coach Kelly Keegan is a dedicated Mustang alumni who brought his extensive playing experience back to Merritt Island. A formidable presence on the field, Coach Keegan excelled as a Linebacker and Defensive Lineman at both Rutgers University and the University of Central Arkansas. His career then extended to the professional ranks, where he dominated as a defensive end/edge-rusher in leagues such as the CFL, AFL, AF2, and WIFL. This high-level playing background instills invaluable real-world knowledge and passion into his coaching. Transitioning his passion for the game to coaching, Kelly served the Brevard County community for several years (2013-2017), developing young talent in both tackle and flag football. Since the spring of 2022, he has been an invaluable asset to the Mustang coaching staff, specializing as the Linebacker Coach and Assistant for Special Teams, Defense, and Strength & Conditioning. Coach Keegan's commitment to developing well-rounded athletes, combined with his deep roots in the Mustang program and his impressive playing career, makes him a pivotal figure in preparing players for success both on and off the field. Connect with Coach Keegan on X: @321claims
Dean Sawyer
Assistant Offensive Line
Coach Dean Sawyer Offensive Line Coach Coach Dean Sawyer enters his sixth season guiding the trenches at Merritt Island High School. A dedicated Mustang alumnus (Class of 1985), Sawyer brings a deep understanding of the program's history and standards to the coaching staff. Sawyer’s coaching career includes a successful decade-long tenure as the Offensive Line Coach at Merritt Island Christian School, where he was known for developing disciplined and fundamentally sound units. Since returning to his alma mater, he has played an integral role in the program's recent success, helping anchor the offensive front during the Mustangs' run to the 2021 State Championship game. Coach Sawyer knows exactly what it takes to succeed in a Mustang uniform; he was a three-year offensive lineman and captain of the 1984 team. He remains committed to building strong leaders and instilling toughness in his players, upholding the proud tradition of Merritt Island football.
Eric Holt
Defensive Assistant
Coach Eric Holt Defensive Assistant / Equipment Manager / Drone Film Coach Eric Holt is a dedicated member of the Merritt Island High School staff, currently in his fifth year with the Mustangs. A proud alumnus of Merritt Island from the 1980s, Coach Holt brings a deep-rooted connection and passion for the program. For the past five seasons, he has served as a Defensive Assistant and the invaluable Equipment Manager, ensuring the team is well-prepared both on and off the field. This past year, he also took on the innovative role of utilizing drone film during practices, providing crucial aerial perspective for coaching analysis. Prior to joining the Mustangs, Coach Holt honed his coaching skills at the Pop Warner level for 10 years, developing young athletes in the community. Outside of his commitment to the Mustangs, Coach Holt serves the community as a Brevard County Firefighter. His dedication to service, combined with his extensive experience and love for Merritt Island football, makes him a vital part of the coaching staff.
Cooper Wilson
Defensive Quality Control
Cooper Wilson Defensive Quality Control Cooper Wilson is a proud alumnus of Merritt Island High School (Class of 2017), where he was a key contributor on defense and served as team captain during the 2016 season, finishing among the team’s leading tacklers and helping lead the Mustangs to three district championships. He continued his football career at Columbia University (Class of 2021), competing at the FCS level in the Ivy League. An immediate contributor as a freshman at Defensive End, he was part of the Columbia Lion’s historic 2017 season, and helped change the culture and turn the program around. After completing his playing career, he returned to Merritt Island in 2022 to give back to the program that helped shape him, beginning as the Defensive Ends coach. He later coached the Inside Linebackers from 2023–2024, playing a key role in developing the defense’s toughness, discipline, and football IQ. In 2025, he transitioned into his current role as Defensive Quality Control coach. In this position, he works closely with the defensive staff on opponent breakdown, situational preparation, and in-game support, helping ensure adjustments are communicated quickly and effectively while providing detailed insights that keep the unit organized and prepared each week.
Noah Spaeth
Ass. Offensive Line
Coach Noah Thennis enters his third season on the Merritt Island High School coaching staff, serving as the Assistant Offensive Line Coach. A proud Mustang alumnus, Coach Thennis brings both passion and experience back to his home turf. Before returning to the sidelines at Merritt Island, Thennis played collegiate football at Concordia University Wisconsin. His firsthand experience at the next level helps him mentor and develop the Mustangs' offensive front, emphasizing technique, toughness, and teamwork. As a graduate of Merritt Island High School, Coach Thennis is dedicated to continuing the proud tradition of Mustang football and helping student-athletes succeed both on and off the field.
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Tom Struble
Offensive Line
Coach Tom Struble brings a wealth of coaching experience and a passion for developing young athletes to Merritt Island High School, where he serves as the Offensive Line Coach and also educates students as a history teacher. Before joining the Mustang coaching staff, Coach Struble built an impressive resume across various programs: 2024: Head Coach, Parsippany High School 2023: Defensive Coordinator / Linebackers & Tight Ends Coach, Morristown Beard School 2022: Co-Defensive Coordinator / Defensive Line & Assistant Offensive Line Coach 2018-2021: Offensive Line / Defensive Line Coach, Rockaway Rockets With a diverse background ranging from youth football development to leading high school programs, Coach Struble's expertise is a valuable asset to the Merritt Island Mustangs. His commitment to both athletic and academic excellence makes him a true mentor for his players.
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Nick Moss
Ass. Linebackers Coach
Nick Moss Assistant Linebacker / JV Defensive Coordinator Coach Moss brings more than a decade of football coaching experience across youth, middle school, and high school levels, with a strong emphasis on player development, defensive execution, and program organization. He joined Merritt Island High School for the 2025 season. Prior to his role at Merritt Island, Coach Moss was at Bethlehem High School in Bardstown Kentucky, where he worked with varsity and junior varsity wide receivers and served as the varsity Special Teams Coordinator. He assisted with opponent breakdowns, film study, and game-planning. Coach Moss spent nearly a decade with Nelson County Schools, coaching at every level from senior tackle (grades 5–6) through varsity football. During that tenure, he coached wide receivers and linebackers, served as an assistant middle school head coach, managed full varsity game statistics, and played a key role in practice planning, pre-game preparation, and parent communication. His long-standing coaching career is complemented by his continued service in the U.S. Navy Reserve, bringing a disciplined, leadership-driven approach to promote the Mustang culture of winning Championships.
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Jesson Walker
Corners
Coach Jesson Walker Defensive Backs Coach Coach Jesson Walker brings Division I playing experience and local roots to the coaching staff. He has quickly made his mark as a mentor, guiding two of his defensive backs to All-County honors this past season. A former collegiate defensive back, Walker played at Florida International University (FIU). He was a key contributor during the 2020 season, playing in every game and recording tackles and pass breakups for a stingy Panthers unit. Notably, he was part of an elite defense that ranked 15th nationally and fourth in Conference USA for passing yards allowed (187.2 per game). Walker went on to finish his collegiate playing career at St. Thomas University in Miami. Before the collegiate level, Walker was a standout multi-sport athlete at nearby Rockledge High School. He competed in basketball and track and field and was an Honorable Mention selection for the Space Coast Region as a defensive back. Coach Walker uses his extensive background in the secondary to teach technique and discipline to the next generation of players.
Waldo Williams
Running Backs
Coach Waldo Williams Coach Waldo Williams brings an unparalleled legacy of athletic achievement and pioneering spirit to the Merritt Island High School coaching staff. A true icon of Brevard County sports, Waldo was a foundational member of the undefeated 1972 Merritt Island Mustangs State Championship team, widely considered one of the greatest high school teams in Florida history. Beyond his impactful play as a bruising runner, Waldo was a multi-sport phenom, earning All-State honors in both football and baseball, where he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds. He later played collegiately at Florida State, famously winning a landmark legal battle with the NCAA that set a precedent for athletes' eligibility across sports. Notably, Waldo was also the first Black athlete to participate in several local sporting leagues, embodying courage and leadership. Coach Williams leverages his historic career, which includes meeting legends like Vince Lombardi and breaking barriers, to inspire and mentor Mustang athletes. He instills invaluable lessons of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, shaping young men both on and off the field with the same championship caliber that defined his playing days.